Discover this podcast and so much more

Podcasts are free to enjoy without a subscription. We also offer ebooks, audiobooks, and so much more for just $11.99/month.

Why Big Numbers Break Our Brains

Why Big Numbers Break Our Brains

FromShort Wave


Why Big Numbers Break Our Brains

FromShort Wave

ratings:
Length:
12 minutes
Released:
Jan 3, 2024
Format:
Podcast episode

Description

In celebration of our 1000th episode, we're wrapping our heads around big numbers. Educational neuroscientist Elizabeth Toomarian talks about why humans' evolutionarily-old brains are so bad at comprehending large quantities–like the national debt and the size of the universe–and how to better equip ourselves to understand important issues like our finances and the impacts of climate change.Interested in other ways our brains make sense of the world? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.
Released:
Jan 3, 2024
Format:
Podcast episode

Titles in the series (100)

New discoveries, everyday mysteries, and the science behind the headlines — all in about 10 minutes, every weekday. It's science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join host Maddie Sofia for science on a different wavelength.